Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.0 (3)
$199.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (3)
$199.00
Amazon
4.2 (14)
Used
Reverb
5.0 (2)
$167.04 New
$140.00 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (7)
$199.00
Thomann
4.8 (85)
$156.00 $155.00 $1.00 · All time low

Average Price: $180

Standard/Professional

$119

$200+

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Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black is a versatile and potent combination of EMG P-X and EMG LJ-X active bass pickups. This dynamic duo provides a rich, warm low-end punch from the P-X and a tight mid-range punch with a dynamic high-end response from the LJ-X. Whether you're looking to lay down some tight slap funk or smooth Motown groove, this set has got you covered.

The true beauty of this set lies in its versatility. Each pickup can be used separately or in combination, allowing you to cater to both new and traditional bass playing styles. The result? A unique bass sound that sets you apart from the crowd.

Experience the thrill of the "X" factor that's got bass players worldwide buzzing. This easy-to-install pickup set comes with EMG's exclusive solderless Quik-Connect system, solid shaft volume/active tone control set, output jack, battery clip set, and adjustment screws.

Key Features:

  • Combines EMG P-X and LJ-X active bass pickups
  • Offers warmth, low-end punch, tight mid-range punch, and dynamic high-end response
  • Accommodates both new and traditional bass playing styles
  • Includes EMG's exclusive solderless Quik-Connect system
  • Comes with solid shaft volume/active tone control set, output jack, battery clip set, adjustment screws
  • Ideal for 4-string bass guitars with standard PJ milling
  • Newly developed preamp with open and dynamic sound concept

Product specs

Type Set: Single-coil
Format PJ
Active/Passive Active
Magnet Material Ceramic
Number of Strings 4
DC Resistance 2K
Number of Conductors 2 wire plus battery (bridge), 4 wire plus battery (middle)
Features Solderless, Split-coil (middle)

FAQs

What type of sound can I expect from the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set?

The EMG PJ Set offers a balanced sound with brilliant high-end articulation, warmth, and a punchy low end, thanks to its ceramic magnets and active design. It's suitable for a range of music styles, providing clarity and definition.

Are the EMG PJ Set pickups suitable for a 4-string bass?

Yes, the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set is specifically designed for 4-string bass guitars, ensuring optimal performance and fit.

How does the installation of the EMG PJ Set work?

The EMG PJ Set features a solderless installation system, making it easy to install without the need for soldering tools. This user-friendly design simplifies the upgrade process for bass players.

What is the advantage of the active design in the EMG PJ Set pickups?

The active design of the EMG PJ Set pickups provides increased output, reduced noise, and enhanced dynamic range, making them ideal for players seeking clarity and power in their bass sound.

Can the EMG PJ Set be used for genres like rock or metal?

Yes, the EMG PJ Set is well-suited for genres such as rock and metal due to its powerful output and clear articulation, which cut through dense mixes and high-gain settings effectively.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black.

Features and functionality

  • The EMG PX with ceramic magnets is noted for a much brighter sound compared to the PAX, even with some tone rolled off.

    Source
  • The variable Midrange control is noted as effective but may not be preferred over bass/treble or EXB controls for some users.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Utilizing an 18V setup rather than 9V is recommended for maintaining punch and clarity, as 9V systems may lose performance as battery voltage sags.

    Source
  • The Dimarzio Relentless pickups can be paired with the Area J (dp248) for a balanced sound, despite the Areas being discontinued.

    Source

User experience

  • Users have reported that with 18V systems, batteries sound optimal until they completely die, whereas 9V systems gradually lose punch.

    Source
  • An owner of the active PJ5 set in a Squier Mustang V reports a sound profile that is big, loud, and crystal clear, showcasing the pickups' ability to handle volume and clarity well.

    Source
  • EMG pickups are noted for their solderless installation, simplifying the upgrade process for those less experienced with soldering.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The EMG X series is praised for greater dynamics compared to the regular PA, influencing user preference for active P-bass setups.

    Source
  • The DiMarzio Model PJ pickups are described as super hot and aggressive ceramics, offering a stark contrast to the lifeless sound some experience with the Geezer PJ set.

    Source
  • Nordstrand pickups are recommended for those seeking an alternative with a different tonal character compared to Aguilar's vintage sound.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • For a Black Sabbath cover band, the Geezer PJ set seems appropriate, yet versatility across genres might be better achieved with alternative sets like the DiMarzio Model PJs.

    Source
  • Aguilar pickups are suggested for those desiring an alnico vintage sound, ideal for players leaning towards classic rock or blues genres.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Robert Trujillo uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

Robert Trujillo

Bassist

Metallica

...
Verified

In this photo of a custom Warwick Streamer CV made for Robert, a pair of black and white EMG PJ pickups can be seen

See how Jason Newsted uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

Jason Newsted

Bassist

Metallica

...
Verified via Photo

Jason Newsted is confirmed to use the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black, as evidenced by his custom PJ bass featuring these pickups on the album cover of "Garage Days Re-Revisited."

See how Sting uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

Sting

Singer, Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Photo

Sting used the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black on his Spector bass, as these were the stock pickups for the model at the time, as evidenced by a Getty Images photograph showing him performing live with the instrument.

See how Duff McKagan uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

Duff McKagan

Singer, Guitarist

Guns N' Roses

...
Verified

Duff McKagan uses the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black in his Spector NS-2 model, as these pickups were the stock option for that instrument.

See how Victor Wooten uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

Victor Wooten

Bassist

Bass Extremes

...
Verified via Photo

According to EMG's page, Victor Wooten, who has been a long time EMG user, uses the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black in his basses. This is evidenced by an image available on Equipboard.

See how Rex Brown uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

Rex Brown

Bassist

Pantera

...
Verified via Photo

Rex Brown has been using the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black since the 1990s, specifically on his 4-string Spector NS-2 basses, as these pickups were standard for the model. This is supported by photographic evidence.

See how David Ellefson uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

David Ellefson

Singer, Bassist

Megadeth

...
Verified via Photo

David Ellefson used the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black on his signature 4-string basses from the late 80s and early 90s, specifically in a reverse P configuration, and he still owns these basses to this day, as evidenced by the image provided.

See how Gene Simmons uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

Gene Simmons

Singer, Bassist

Kiss

...
Verified via Photo

Gene Simmons is a long-time user and sponsor of EMG pickups, including the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black, as evidenced by the image provided by guitar.com.

See how Tom Araya uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

Tom Araya

Singer, Bassist

Slayer

...
Verified via Photo

Tom Araya has been a long-time user of the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black, primarily throughout the 1980s and 1990s. This is evidenced by a photograph from the 1990s, which clearly shows the EMG logo on the pickups of his BC Rich bass.

See how Troy Sanders uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

Troy Sanders

Singer, Bassist

Mastodon

...
Verified via Photo

Troy Sanders is confirmed to use the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black, as he is featured as an artist on the EMG website, which specifically mentions his use of this pickup set.

See how Mike Inez uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

Mike Inez

Bassist

Alice in Chains

...
Verified via Photo

Mike Inez uses the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black on his Spector basses, as these were the stock pickups at the time, as evidenced by the image hosted on Equipboard.

See how Frank Bello uses EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black

Frank Bello

Bassist

Anthrax

...
Verified via Photo

Before transitioning to the PJX pickups and eventually his signature pickups, Frank Bello used the EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black in the 1980s, as evidenced by a photograph from that era.

Album Usage

The EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use EMG PJ Set Active Ceramic PJ Bass Pickup Set Black, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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